Inflatable Game Rental Michigan Safety Guidelines, Inflatable Game Safety, Rent Inflatable Games Safely in Michigan

Safety Guidelines
Owner operators should be familiar with the various regulations governing the industry. While many states
reference the guidelines published by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) National Electrical Code
(NEC) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), some of them don’t require the adoption of
these regulations. Others see the guidelines as laws in the making. For example, the State of Pennsylvania
has mandated that any standard passed by ASTM is automatically law. And, rental company owners better
not begin setting up in North Carolina if the owner’s manual for each ride isn’t onsite. Knowing the
particular regulations for the states in which you work can help you make wise purchasing and operational
decisions.
In most cases, safety concerns in various areas should be answered by the manufacturer of your particular
games, preferably in the owner’s maintenance or operations manual. After all, the manufacturer is the
designer and creator of your inflatables. He or she should be the expert on all aspects of setup, securing
and operation of the device.
If something is not covered within your owner’s manual, contact the manufacturer for guidance. Ask that
your question be answered in writing on company letterhead. Written answers prevent a “that’s not what I
said” scenario.
What you may not realize is that if the manufacturer hasn’t defined some operational aspect, you may be
required to come up with a procedure yourself and, consequently, assume liability extending from your self-
defined “process” in the event of an incident. Depending on the process, anchoring for instance, you
better have an engineering degree if you plan to come up with something on your own.
In general your encounters with safety officers will be for the purpose of ensuring your compliance with
state regulations and/or manufacturers’ operational requirements. It is not the safety officer’s responsibility
to pass judgment on the adequacy of a certain manufacturer’s specification. Said Dodson, “I’ve seen owner’
s manuals that specify 500 pounds of weight at each tether point. That’s the equivalent of one 60-gallon
drum full of water per point. It’s not up to me to determine whether the amount is too little, enough or
overkill. My job is to ensure the operator is observing the requirement set down by the manufacturer.
It’s not outside the realm of possibility that manufacturer’s instructions actually could conflict with state
regulations. In this case, documentation is the key. Bring the matter to the attention of the manufacturer
and ask for clarification. Contact the state regulatory agency if you have questions about the specifics of a
regulation. Keep notes and a good paper trail on your attempts to resolve the conflict.
Dodson recalled a noteworthy conflict he encountered. “A manufacturer’s rules stated one operator per
device. An FEC owner called and asked for a letter saying one operator could monitor three games. The
manufacturer was put in the position of countermanding his own rules to help out a good customer who
didn’t want to hire more help.” In this case the state regulatory agency with its own “one operator per
device” requirement trumped any letter the manufacturer might have written.

Extension cords
Extension cords have come under fire recently in the State of Washington with legislation proposed to
prohibit their use on blowers. When it comes to extension cords and “all things electrical,” the safety
officers reference Article 525 of the National Electrical Code (NEC), as well as the manufacturer’s
specifications.
Dodson notes that the NEC is comprehensive in its specifications for how cords can be used. For example,
the NEC specifies that cords can’t be left on the ground at the connections because it poses a shock
hazard. It must be six inches above the ground in a properly connected box.
Remarks LaSalle, “If the power cord meets the NEC requirements for the application and manufacturer’s
criteria for gauge, amperage and stress relief, it should be acceptable.”
The result of any action on the part of the State of Washington may simply be that blowers will now be
manufactured with long lead cords rather than short “pigtail” type connections. The lead cord will then, for
all intents and purposes, be the extension cord.

Signage
All owner operators of inflatable games should post signage for each unit. The signage should cover all
operating rules such as height, weight or medical restrictions for riders, whether jewelry or shoes may be
worn and how the game should be played (i.e. slide feet first, no flips, etc.).
Manufacturers typically provide signage and owner operators know legibility and prominent placement for
viewing by the public is necessary. However, not all manufacturer’s signage will meet every state’s
requirements. Some states are so detailed as to specify the size of the lettering on signs. Check with the
appropriate regulatory agency to assure that the signage provided meets the regulatory criteria. If not,
notify the game manufacturer of your state’s particular requirements.

Fencing, Tripping and Netting
The main role of fencing is to keep the public away from the activity of the game. ASTM requires 42-inch
high fencing with no more than a four-inch opening between bars. Inflatable walls and/or netting on
bounces or obstacle courses fulfill that requirement if the height is at least 42 inches and the gaps in the
netting less than four inches. However, if the game in question has side walls that dip down below 42
inches, you may need to contact the manufacturer to obtain an attachable side panel or Velcro flap to
bring the unit into compliance.
Ed LaSalle noted that some manufacturers do recommend fencing or other barriers either around the
game or blower area. Said LaSalle, “My personal opinion is the entire device should be fenced to ASTM
Standards with gates to restrict access to the entrance/exit area, any spectator areas and the blower area.
Fencing eliminates spectators standing to close, tampering with blowers and cords, trip hazards and
confusion during loading and unloading for the operator.
According to Jim Barber, fencing around all devices that are not otherwise guarded by location may also be
a jurisdictional requirement. Barber noted, “Keep in mind that a properly fenced and gated device not only
will help prevent the patrons from playing around with the blowers and electrical cords, it will also allow for
orderly access to and from the device and most likely eliminate or minimize the tripping hazards posed by
the hold down ropes and stakes.
All three men had something to say about avoiding possible trip hazards and they agreed that fencing
staked areas is the most effective method. LaSalle remarked, “Covering and highlighting stakes will help,
but not eliminate the problem.” Different ways of marking the location of stakes seem to be as individual as
the rental operators themselves. Stakes may be painted, “flagged” with fluorescent fabric, covered with cut
tennis balls or marked with milk jugs. A type of barrier can be constructed from covering the stakes with
pipes and stringing rope between them. The main idea is to draw attention to the area and signify to
patrons that something is there.
As for netting, manufacturers should use netting of a proper strength to withstand the stresses applied to a
game during its operation. Netting gaps of more than four inches could encourage hand or head
entrapment and should be repaired professionally. Said Dodson, “Some people try to repair holes by tying
netting patches with wire ties. That’s unacceptable. Wire ties can leave a tail or barb that can cause injury.”
Dodson recommends proper weaving or sewing for any netting repair.
Tightly woven netting shouldn’t affect visibility, but visibility for children within a bounce isn’t really an issue.
As long as they are capable of seeing each other and enjoying the activity safely, the netting is serving its
purpose. Of course, the operator or attendant should always have a clear view of the game interior. In fact,
tight weaving or solid inflatable walls can be a benefit. “Adults are tempted to come close to watch their
children play.

Anchoring
When it comes to anchoring, manufacturers must provide the means and method to secure the inflatable
devices they sell, and the more specific the better. If staking is recommended, look for the manufacturer to
define the type, length and angle of the stake, how much may protrude from the ground and the number
and angle of tethers that are to be connected at that point. For indoor use, weight and placement per point
should be defined. Within the owner’s manual, anchoring should be clearly illustrated on a “footprint” of the
game

Safety will continue to be a significant topic in the inflatable industry. More and more standards likely will be
put in place and those already in force may have an even higher degree of specificity. Dodson predicts the
inflatable industry will soon need to operate in the same way and with the same attention to detail as the
hard ride industry has for years. “Right now 38 states have some sort of amusement regulations on the
books,” notes Dodson. “I think it’s wise to be prepared for the establishment of regulations in states without
any and an increased focus on safety in states that already have some regulatory legislation.”

National Electrical Code Article 525 Covering Carnivals, Circuses, Fairs and Similar Events
Article 525 covers the installation of portable wiring and equipment for carnivals, circuses, exhibitions, fairs,
traveling attractions, and similar functions, including wiring in or on all structures. [525-1]
Boxes. A box or fitting shall be installed at each connection point, outlet, switchpoint, or junction point. [525-
14]
Code Conflicts. Wherever the requirements of other articles of this Code and Article 525 differ, the
requirements of Article 525 shall apply to the portable wiring and equipment. [525-3]
Cord on Ground. Flexible cords or cables run on the ground accessible to the public shall be covered with
approved nonconductive mats arranged so as not to present a tripping hazard. [525-13]
Cord Splices. Flexible cords or cables shall be continuous without splice or tap between boxes or fittings.
[525-13]
Disconnect. Each ride and concession shall be provided with a readily accessible disconnect switch located
within 6 ft and within sight of the operator's station. Where the disconnect is accessible to unqualified
persons, it shall be of the lockable type. A shunt trip device that is controlled by a switch located in the
rides operator's console can be used as the required disconnect. [525-30]
Distribution and Termination Boxes. Portable distribution and termination boxes shall be designed so that
no live parts are exposed to accidental contact. If locate outdoors they shall be weatherproof and be held
at least 6 inches off the ground. [525-15]
Equipment Grounding. All equipment requiring grounding shall be bonded to the system grounded
conductor at the service or separately derived system. The grounded circuit conductor shall not be
connected to the equipment grounding conductor on the load side of the service or separately derived
system disconnecting means. [525-22]
Generators. Generators must be installed in accordance with Articles 250 and 445. Generators that are
considered service equipment must be grounded in accordance with Section 250-23 and generators of the
separately derived type must be grounded in accordance with Section 250-26. [525-10]
GFCI Protection. The ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection is not required for receptacles. [525-18]
Mechanical Protection. Electrical equipment and wiring methods subject to physical damage must be
provided with mechanical protection. [525-6]
Motors. Motors shall be installed in accordance with Article 430. [525-17]
Open Conductors. Open conductors are prohibited except as part of a listed assembly or festoon lighting
installed in accordance with Article 225. [525-13]
Overcurrent Protection. Overcurrent protection of equipment and conductors shall be in accordance with
Article 240. [525-16]
Overhead Conductors Clearance to Rides and Attractions. Overhead conductors must maintain a
clearance of no less than 15 feet in any direction from amusement rides and amusement attractions,
except for conductors that supply the amusement ride or attraction. [525-18]
Overhead Conductors Vertical Clearances. Overhead conductors shall have a vertical clearance to ground
in accordance with Section 225-18. [525-18]
10 ft -- above finished grade, sidewalks, or from any platform or projection from which they might be
reached where the supply conductors are limited to 150 volts to ground and accessible to pedestrians only.
12 ft -- over residential property and driveways, and those commercial areas not subject to truck traffic
where the voltage is limited to 300 volts to ground.
15 ft -- for those areas listed in the 12-ft classification where the voltage exceeds 300 volts to ground.
18 ft -- over public streets, alleys, roads, parking areas subject to truck traffic, driveways on other than
residential property, and other land traversed by vehicles such as cultivated, grazing, forest, and orchard.
Service. In general, the service shall be mounted on a solid backing, protected from the weather, installed
in a location not accessible to unqualified persons and installed in accordance with Articles 230 and 250.
[525-10]
Single Conductor Cable. Single conductor cable is permitted in sizes No. 2 or larger. [525-13]
Transformers. Transformers must be installed in accordance with the requirements of Articles 250 and
450, particularly Section 250-26. [525-10]
Wiring Methods. Wiring methods must be installed in accordance with the requirements of Chapters 1
through 4. Where flexible cords or cables are used, they shall be listed for extra-hard usage, wet location,
and be sunlight resistant, such as EV, EVE, or EVT. [525-13]
Wiring Method Support. Wiring for one amusement ride shall not be supported by another ride. [525-13]

Read And Follow The Posted Rules
Millions of people enjoy amusement rides every year with very few incidents because of the safety
systems that have been put in place. Ride manufacturers design safety into the ride hardware and specify
procedures for the ride operators to follow. The goal is for you to have a fun experience while maintaining
a high level of safety for you and the other riders.

Obey Height Limits
Amusement ride manufacturers specify minimum and maximum heights for riders according to how their
ride is designed to safely carry patrons. Riders that are too small or too large may not be properly
restrained by the safety equipment of the ride. Don’t argue with the ride operator on letting you or your
child ride when you are out of the height limit range. He is just doing his job and is looking out for your
safety.

You Should Be Fit To Ride
Many rides create forces and speeds that may be physically challenging to some riders and may cause
injury to those with pre-existing conditions. Riders must be in good health to ride. Those who have had
recent surgery, expectant mothers, those with high blood pressure, heart conditions, neck or back
problems, and those with any impairment or condition that would prevent normal seating or use of the
safety restraints as provided should not ride. Patrons that are under the influence of drugs or alcohol also
should not ride. If there are any doubts as to you or your child’s condition, do not ride.

Watch The Ride Run Before Riding
It is important that riders know what to expect before getting on a ride. Observe how the operator loads
and unloads riders and what motions the ride will put you through during its routine. Also watch if it seems
to running smoothly and that the operator is attentive or distracted. If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t
ride.

Keep All Body Parts Inside The Ride
You are instructed to hang on while riding and keep hands, arms, legs, long hair, etc. within the ride.

Use The Safety Equipment Provided
Do not attempt to unfasten a lap bar, seat belt, or shoulder restraint until the operator tells you to. If these
restraints are not properly fastened before the ride begins don’t be afraid to ask the operator to come
back and secure it for you.

Don’t Rock The Boat
Some riders get bored with the motion of the ride and try to create some of their own by trying to rock,
roll, tip over, swing, or bounce up and down. This can be a dangerous activity and can cause the ride
operator to shut the ride down to avoid a malfunction or injury.

Wait Until The Ride Stops To Exit
Some riders are so anxious to get to the next ride that they try to jump off before the ride stops and get
injured. Wait until the operator instructs you to exit before getting off.

Don’t Pressure Anyone To Ride
Some people are afraid to ride but will go along with their friends or family and get on the ride anyway.
Occasionally one of them is injured trying to get off the ride while it is still in operation as they are
uncomfortable or even terrified. Parents should not force a child to ride if the child does not want to
participate, as they are the most likely to try to get out of their restraints and jump off.

Be Responsible For Your Children
Amusement parks, fairs, and carnivals are not responsible for unsupervised children. A parent or
guardian should accompany them and be responsible for their safety. Do not send a seven year old to
watch a three year old child on amusement rides. Children are often too young to read the posted rules of
the ride and the ride operator is often counting on a responsible adult to explain them to their child.

Be A Good Spectator
Ride operators are trained to watch the ride as it operates and if the riders are following the rules. It
distracts them when a parent leans over the fence and high fives their child’s outstretched hand. Parents
have even been known to try to get their child to stand up so they can take their photo while riding. Teens
have been known to throw things at their friends on the ride or the operator while the ride is in full motion.

Report Hazards
If you see a condition that you think is not safe, report it to the management of the park, fair, or carnival. If
you are injured or see someone else get injured you should report it to the ride operator or the manager.
This also pertains to the destruction of property, horseplay, or patrons in unauthorized areas that could
lead to injuries.

Rider Responsibility
Several states have passed laws making it a misdemeanor if patrons do not follow the rules and endanger
themselves or others while on amusement rides. A majority of states have adopted ASTM F-24, which is a
national standard for the design, manufacture, and operations of amusement rides and devices. The
Standard Practice for Operation Procedures for Amusement Rides and Devices, F 770-93, has a section
that addresses this as follows:

"5. Patron Responsibility

5.1 There are inherent risks in the participation in or on any amusement ride, device, or attraction.
Patrons of an amusement ride, device, or attraction, by participation, accept the risks inherent in such
participation of which the ordinary prudent person is or should be aware. Patrons have a duty to exercise
good judgment and act in a responsible manner while using the amusement ride, device, or attraction and
to obey all oral or written warnings, or both, prior to or during participation, or both.

5.2 Patrons have a duty to not participate in or on any amusement ride, device, or attraction when under
the influence of drugs or alcohol.

5.3 Patrons have a duty to properly use all ride or device safety equipment provided."

In Michigan, requirements are as follows:

CARNIVAL-AMUSEMENT SAFETY ACT OF 1966 (EXCERPT)
Act 225 of 1966

408.668 Required conduct of rider; requirements.

Sec. 18.

(1) A rider of a carnival or amusement ride shall, at a minimum, do all of the following:

(a) Obey the reasonable safety rules posted in accordance with this act and oral instructions for the
carnival or amusement ride given by the operator or an employee or agent of the operator, unless the
safety rules or oral instructions are contrary to the safety rules provided in this act.

(b) Refrain from acting in any manner that may cause or contribute to the injury of the rider or others,
including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(i) Exceeding the limits of his or her ability.

(ii) Interfering with safety devices that are provided.

(iii) Failing to engage safety devices that are provided.

(iv) Disconnecting or disabling a safety device except at the express instruction of the operator or an
employee or agent of the operator.

(v) Altering the intended speed, course, or direction of the carnival or amusement ride.

(vi) Using the controls of a carnival or amusement ride designed solely to be operated by the operator or
an employee or agent of the operator.

(vii) Extending arms and legs beyond the carrier or seating area except at the express direction of the
operator or an employee or agent of the operator.

(viii) Throwing, dropping, or expelling an object from or toward a carnival or amusement ride except as
permitted by the operator or an employee or agent of the operator.

(ix) Getting on or off a carnival or amusement ride except at the designated time and area, unless
directed by the operator or an employee or agent of the operator or in an emergency.

(x) On a carnival or amusement ride that requires the rider to control or direct his or her body or the
carnival or amusement ride, not reasonably controlling the speed or direction of the carnival or
amusement ride or his or her body.

(xi) Intentionally dropping, throwing, or expelling an object from a carnival or amusement ride while riding
on the carnival or amusement ride.

(xii) Doing any act that interferes with the running or operation of a carnival or amusement ride, including,
but not limited to, swinging or bouncing on an aerial carnival or amusement ride or attempting to contact
supporting towers, machinery, guides, or guards while riding on a carnival or amusement ride.

(2) A rider of a carnival or amusement ride shall not get on or attempt to get on a carnival or amusement
ride unless the rider or the rider's parent or guardian reasonably determines that, at a minimum, the rider
meets all of the following requirements:

(a) He or she has sufficient knowledge to get on, use, and get off the carnival or amusement ride safely
without instruction or has requested and received sufficient information to get on, use, and get off the
carnival or amusement ride safely prior to getting on the carnival or amusement ride.

(b) He or she is aware of, has read, and understands any signs in the vicinity of the carnival or
amusement ride and meets any posted height, medical, or other requirements.

(c) He or she knows the range and limits of his or her ability and knows the requirements of the carnival or
amusement ride will not exceed those limits.

(d) He or she is not under the influence of alcohol or any drug that affects his or her ability to safely use
the carnival or amusement ride or obey the posted rules or oral instructions.

(e) He or she is authorized by the operator or by an employee or agent of the operator to get on the
carnival or amusement ride.

History: Add. 2000 Act 346, Eff. Mar. 28, 2001